Hazel Heights, Gainesville,FL

For those considering a move to Gainesville, FL, Hazel Heights offers a charming and welcoming neighborhood experience in the southeast part of the city. This community is known for its friendly atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and a mix of well-maintained single-family homes and townhouses that appeal to a wide range of residents. Hazel Heights strikes a great balance between suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making it a popular choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Its peaceful environment provides a lovely retreat from the busier parts of Gainesville while still keeping you connected to the city's vibrant lifestyle.

One of the standout features of Hazel Heights is its proximity to some of Gainesville’s best attractions. Residents enjoy easy access to the renowned Sweetwater Wetlands Park, a great spot for nature walks, birdwatching, and outdoor activities. The neighborhood is also close to the scenic San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park, perfect for hiking and exploring Florida’s natural beauty. For those who appreciate art and culture, the nearby Gainesville Fine Arts Association and local galleries host regular events and exhibitions. Plus, the community is served by quality schools and local shops, including quaint cafes and family-friendly restaurants that add to the neighborhood’s charm.

When it comes to convenience, Hazel Heights is just a short drive from Downtown Gainesville, approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. This means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: a quiet, comfortable home environment and quick access to downtown’s bustling scene. Downtown Gainesville offers a lively mix of dining, shopping, entertainment, and cultural events, including the popular Bo Diddley Plaza and the Hippodrome Theatre. Whether you're commuting for work, heading out for a night on the town, or visiting the University of Florida campus, Hazel Heights provides a strategic and pleasant home base to explore everything Gainesville has to offer.

25% of the Hazel Heights population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 25% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Hazel Heights demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,320 residents, Hazel Heights is notably smaller than many other Gainesville neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Hazel Heights has a population density of 3,472, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Gainesville neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 33, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Hazel Heights crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Hazel Heights, the median home price is $181,500, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Hazel Heights can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,406, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Hazel Heights combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Hazel Heights can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.